Singing Hot And Cool: The Polyvagal Theory And Vocal Pedagogy
Thursday 17th June 2021, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (London Time)
The vagus nerve is closely involved with both the larynx and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The polyvagal theory details the remarkable role of this nerve bundle in the evolution of voice and speech communication, and affirms the power of the voice as an instantaneous transmitter of ANS status, both in daily life communication and between artist and audience. Finally, parallels emerge between the vagus nerve’s contributions to psycho-physiological resilience (the ability to be aroused and calm at the same time) and artists’ descriptions of stage presence. Crosslinks between neurological evidence and the experience of performing arts will support suggestions for vocal pedagogy.
REVIEW OF TERMINOLOGY
- Structures of interest: cranial nerve X (vagus) and its brainstem nucleii
- Functions of interest: autonomic versus sensory-motor
- Autonomic (ANS) components: sympathetic (“hot”) and parasympathetic (“cool”)
THE POLYVAGAL THEORY OF SOCIAL COMMUNICATION
- Characteristics of the vagus nerve in animals and humans
- How “hot and cool” ANS regulation makes speech and singing possible
THE POLYVAGAL VOICE
- Muscle controls in the vagus nerve: larynx and more
- Voice as a carrier of ANS signals, in daily life and performance
THE POLYVAGAL THEORY ONSTAGE
- How performers describe the inner state onstage
- Is “very hot and very cool” the ANS recipe for stage presence?
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ARTS TEACHERS
- ANS regulation as a pedagogical goal
- The importance of training ensembles
- Suggestions for warm-ups, cool-downs, and performance anxiety
- The well-regulated teacher
Joanna Cazden
Joanna Cazden, MFA, MS-CCC is a speech pathologist specializing in vocal arts rehabilitation, now in private practice after 18 years as senior voice clinician...
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